Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful tool for helping children cope with traumatic experiences. Trauma can occur from various sources such as abuse, neglect, accidents, natural disasters, and others. If left untreated, these traumatic experiences can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

EMDR therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps children process traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment. The therapy is based on the idea that traumatic memories are stored in the brain in a fragmented manner, leading to lingering negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. EMDR therapy helps the child’s brain process and integrate these fragmented memories, allowing the child to heal and move past the trauma.

During an EMDR therapy session, the child is guided through the traumatic memory while performing eye movements, tapping, or other bilateral stimulation. This stimulation helps the brain process the fragmented memories and integrate them into a coherent whole. As a result, the child’s negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to the traumatic memory decrease, allowing the child to heal and move forward.

A child can expect to feel safe, supported, and heard during an EMDR therapy session. The therapist will work with the child to create a safe environment where they can feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences. The child will also be taught coping strategies to use outside of therapy sessions to help manage their emotions.

In conclusion, EMDR therapy is an effective and powerful tool for helping children cope with traumatic experiences. If you believe your child may benefit from EMDR therapy, it is important to find a qualified and experienced therapist.

References:

1. Shapiro, F. (2001). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
2. EMDR International Association. (n.d.). What is EMDR Therapy? https://www.emdria.org/what-is-emdr/
3. The International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation. (2017). Trauma-Focused Psychotherapies for Children and Adolescents. https://www.issd.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=67&Itemid=114